"Inside this simulation, everyone's strength and classes will be equalized. There will be no ranks, no bloodline advantages, and no noble privileges. Here, all of you are A-Ranked adventurers."
The silence shattered instantly.
"What?!"
"Equalized?!"
"You mean we're all the same level here?"
Bale nodded once, his expression unreadable.
"Yes. You all possess A-Rank physical stats, class, mana pool, mana output, and combat parameters. There will be no exceptions. You will stand on equal ground. This trial exists mainly to test your adaptability."
For a brief moment, a wave of excitement erupted through the weaker recruits.
"Finally," someone said, almost laughing. "I can see what it feels like to fight like an A-Rank!"
"Yeah! For once, nobles and elites won't have the advantage!" another cheered.
Several lower-ranked recruits grinned, exhilarated at the thought of finally experiencing true power.
But the joy and excitement faded just as quickly.
